Vissel Kobe 1-3 Barcelona: Bardghji Impresses With Goal On Debut While Rashford Makes First Appearance

Barcelona defeated Vissel Kobe 3-1 in a friendly match during their pre-season tour of Japan and South Korea, marking the debut appearances of Roony Bardghji and Marcus Rashford for the club. The tour faced initial disruptions including payment issues that canceled the first leg and a delayed departure from Spain, but proceeded after resolution, with the squad arriving on Friday minus goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

In the match against J1 League champions Vissel Kobe, Barcelona started strongly with players like Lamine Yamal and Pedri. Eric Garcia opened the scoring after 30 minutes during a goalmouth scramble. Vissel Kobe equalized just before halftime through Taisei Miyashiro, who finished after Joan Garcia saved Daiju Sasaki's initial effort and Rikuto Hirose provided the rebound pass.

Barcelona made extensive halftime substitutions, introducing new signings Bardghji and Rashford. The latter played 33 minutes before being replaced by 17-year-old Dro Fernandez shortly after Barcelona regained the lead at 2-1. Bardghji, a €2 million signing from Copenhagen, scored on his debut by slotting into the bottom-left corner after receiving Robert Lewandowski's pass, with the move originating from Rashford's incisive through ball.

Later in the game, Fernandez volleyed home from the edge of the area following a hurried clearance by Vissel Kobe goalkeeper Daiya Maekawa, sealing Barcelona's 3-1 victory. Rashford, building fitness after his Manchester United absence, recorded four touches in the opposition box (second only to Dani Olmo), one shot on target, one chance created, and two possession regains in the final third during his limited appearance.

The comfortable win showcased Barcelona's promising pre-season form in Asia despite the earlier logistical challenges, with both debutants making notable contributions.